Liebherr reveals LRB 16 piling and drilling rig

German equipment giant Liebherr has brought out the LRB 16, an all-round piling and drilling rig designed for various applications in the deep foundation sector.

The big rig gets its name from the distance the piling sledge travels, which is approximately 16m. The drill is also available as an LRB 18 with an optional longer leader.

Liebherr says there has been a special emphasis on achieving the most compact design possible for the LRB 16, and the end result is a machine that weighs in at just over 38 tonnes.

The resulting low ground pressure increases the machine’s stability, ensures a quick set-up and gives flexibility in transporting the machine.

Powered by a 390kW Liebherr diesel engine configured to EU Stage IV/US Tier 4 Final emissions standards, the LRB 16 can deliver up to 200kN of crowd force.

The LRB 16 has an ergonomically designed operators cab with air-conditioning and an orthopaedic air-suspension seat. Real-time machine performance information is displayed on the machine’s high-resolution monitor.

The monitor also displays the cruise control system, which can be used to automate piling and drilling processes such as pull-down and rotational speed.

The LBR 16 also features automated obstacle recognition that can detect obstacles deep below the soil, protecting both the attachment and the machine.

Performance and operational data can be transferred back to the office through Liebherr’s LiDAT data transmission system.

Liebherr says the LRB 16’s hydraulics have been engineered to maximise fuel efficiency. The system’s main pumps are operated by a distributor gear box, with axial piston variable displacement pumps supplying oil only on demand.

Hydraulic pressure peaks are absorbed by the integrated automatic pressure compensation, which relieves the pumps and saves fuel.